A Synthesis Programme at Cambridge
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Cambridge
Department Name: Chemistry
Abstract
The research presented in this proposal, encompasses a broad range of challenging projects. The total syntheses will require the development of existing reactions and the invention of new processes. We will develop new synthetic methods and new tools for molecular synthesis. There is much to commend an integrated programme of science as presented in this document. The desire for more efficient syntheses stimulates the discovery of new reactivities to solve particular problems. New reactions can open up areas for total synthesis and analogue generation that were previously inaccessible. These drivers impact on the development of new methods for synthesis. The added value that arises from having a closely coupled programme containing the development of new synthetic methods, new ways of performing reactions and total synthesis is considerable. All these disciplines will drive the creative process. It is undoubtedly a grand challenge, but one we feel is worthy of investment.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
Steven Ley (Principal Investigator) |
Publications
Ley S
(2013)
Camera-enabled techniques for organic synthesis.
Ley S
(2009)
Enantioselective Synthesis of the Lyngbouilloside Macrolactone Core
in Synlett
Ley S
(2013)
Synthesis of (-)-Hennoxazole A: Integrating Batch and Flow Chemistry Methods
in Synlett
Ley S
(2011)
Lesser-Known Enabling Technologies for Organic Synthesis
in Synthesis
Ley SV
(2009)
Total synthesis of rapamycin.
in Chemistry (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)
Description | New methods and new tools have been developed for the synthesis of molecules of biological interest. The three major themes of this work are Natural Product Synthesis, New Synthesis Methods, and Emerging Technology and New Tools for Chemical Synthesis. Natural Product Synthesis So far the total syntheses of iso- and bongkrekic acids, chloptosin and O-methyl siphonazole have been accomplished. New Synthesis Methods New synthesis methods that have so far been invented and developed to provide improvements or strategic advantages over existing protocols in organic chemistry include the use of pyrrolidinyl-tetrazole as a versatile organocatalyst in enantioselective synthesis including nitrocyclopropanation reactions and the addition of malonates to enones, and the use of biocatalysis for 'greener' chemical processes. Emerging Technology and New Tools for Chemical Synthesis. We have had great success in developing user-friendly gas reactors for introducing a range of gases into a liquid stream. We have collaborated with instrument manufacturers to invent new in-line reaction monitoring equipment with diagnostic capabilities, and new apparatus has been devised to solve current problems in cryogenic flow chemistry. Novel monolithic constructs have been prepared and used as alternatives to solution-based reagents and substrates. |
Exploitation Route | The scientific community has benefitted by the discovery and demonstration that biocatalysis can be used for 'greener' chemical processes thus reducing the impact on the environment and society as a whole. Our work Emerging Technology and New Tools for Chemical Synthesis has provided the community new equipment that, through our collaboration with manufacturers, can be purchased so as to enable users to be able to reproduce our work and for them to make their own discoveries. |
Sectors | Chemicals,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |
Description | Our work has benefitted local equipment manufacturers who we collaborated with us to invent new in-line reaction monitoring equipment with diagnostic capabilities, and new apparatus to solve current problems in cryogenic flow chemistry. Novel monolithic constructs have been prepared and used as alternatives to solution-based reagents and substrates. Global citizens have also benefitted due to reduced resource consumption for the preparation of molecules of biological interest. The large number of students and staff who were supported on the grant made very significant contributions to the science achieved, eg publications as well as receiving an outstanding training. The post-docs have now moved on to pursue careers in academia or industry. |
First Year Of Impact | 2008 |
Sector | Chemicals,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |
Impact Types | Economic |
Title | Other Research Output |
Description | New / Enhanced Equipment / Facility |
Type Of Technology | New/Improved Technique/Technology |
Year Produced | 2010 |
Impact | Development of fluorination methods using continuous-flow microreactors |
Title | Other Research Output |
Description | New / Improved Product / Process |
Type Of Technology | New Material/Compound |
Year Produced | 2010 |
Impact | A fully automated, multistep flow synthesis of 5-amino-4-cyano-1,2,3-triazoles |
Title | Other Research Output |
Description | New / Improved Technique / Technology |
Type Of Technology | New/Improved Technique/Technology |
Year Produced | 2010 |
Impact | Development of fluorination methods using continuous-flow microreactors |